Carriers announced general rate increases that span into February this week, as spot rates around the globe respond to mid-December rate hikes. Drewry Maritime Research’s World Container Index composite index, which measures 11 East-to-West trade lanes, jumped a cumulative 35.8 percent this week.

Multiple container lines plan to attempt general rate increases in numerous trade lanes in December and January, although any gains achieved could be temporary as overcapacity and sluggish global demand continue.